Chery KP31 Concept Previews New Ute

Australia’s already fiercely fought dual-cab ute segment is about to gain another major player thanks to Chery.

It has revealed the KP31 Ute Concept, but this isn’t some perhaps-maybe tease, with the production version scheduled to be in showrooms by the end of 2026.

Offering a unique selling point is key in this crowded segment and the KP31 will be the first ute to offer a diesel plug-in hybrid powertrain, with a petrol plug-in hybrid option to follow in 2027.

Technical specifications are still kept under wrapped, other than Chery revealing it will be a 2.5-litre turbodiesel (presumably with four cylinders) with “class-leading thermal efficiency at 47 per cent, while also being 10 per cent more fuel efficient compared to the average diesel powertrain.”

Chery also claims its powertrain reduces vibration by 30 per cent compared to the average turbodiesel powertrain, while maximum payload is 1000kg and maximum braked towing capacity is 3500kg.

The KP31 Concept has plenty of presence thanks to sizeable 285/70R17 BF Goodrich All-Terrain K03 tyres, snorkel and tray rack with 4x4 recovery tracks, but expect this tinsel to be removed for the production version.

Nevertheless, it confirms that the production KP31 will be b-i-g at 80mm longer, 2mm wider and 39mm taller than a Ford Ranger Wildtrak.

Chery Australia’s Chief Operating Officer, Lucas Harris, said in a statement: “We’re incredibly excited to finally reveal he KP31 ute concept vehicle, and this marks the next step in bringing it to the Australian market.

“It’s also riveting to be the first brand to offer a diesel PHEV in the dual-cab ute class, which will be our key point of difference compared to the competition.”

Pricing and further technical specifications will be confirmed closer to the production ute’s launch later in 2026.

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